1. Verbal Communication

2. Communication Communication: process of conveying information in such a way that the message is received and understood. • You can share ideas, opinions, and facts with others • Good communication is a skill you will use throughout your life

3. Communciation • Speakers: must try to make their message relevant to the listener • Listener: must open their minds to the messages being sent

4. Verbal Communication Involves the use of words You must first learn to: • Listen • Speak well

5. Listening • A spoken message is useless unless there is a listener • Hearing and listening are different Examples?

6. Barrier to Good Listening • Habit of ignoring • Not understanding message • Dialects/words may be different • Tone of voice • Forgetting all or parts of a message • People remember 25% of information they receive through listening

7. Become an Active Listener • Giving some form of feedback to speaker. • Lets the speaker know the message is getting through to the listener. • Examples: nod, smile, or even a comment

8. Active Listener Tips • Ask questions to clarify message • Pay attention: use eye contact, avoid daydreaming • Be interested • Be patient: do not interrupt or take over • Keep the speaker in mind: they have their own point of view • Stay focused • Use reflection • Listen to tone of voice

9. Speaking Speaking and listening are both important! Developing these skills: • Keep listener in mind • Keep it short and simple • Be considerate of others’ feelings • Be open and honest • Respect the listener • Be positive • Check to see if message is received correctly

10. Nonverbal Communication

11. Nonverbal Communication • Communication that does not involve words • Can be the way a person: • Looks • Dresses • Acts • Reacts

12. Your Appearance • First impressions • Judgments are made quickly based on how you look • Good grooming is important • The clothes you wear sends a message • Lifestyle • Personality • How you feel about yourself

13. Your Actions • Manners • Shows you care about others feelings

14. Body Language • Body movements such as facial expressions, gestures, and postures that send messages to people. • These can make messages clear. • Examples?

15. Posture • Sitting up straight: all is well, I am ready • Slumped: tired, bored, illness, negative message

16. Arms • Extending your arm: sign of approval • Folded arms: creates a barrier, sign of disapproval

17. Hands • Some people talk with their hands to make their messages clearer. • Hands in pocket: lack of interest • Hands on hips: defensive message • Handshake: can be cold/uninterested or warm/friendly.

18. Nodding/Facial expressions Nodding • Sign of approval Facial expressions: • Can definitely show a persons emotions

19. Eye contact • In class: students that do not want to participate will avoid eye contact with the teacher. • In some cultures making eye contact with someone of authority is disrespectful • Overall in the United States, it’s a sign of respect